Te-Hina Paopao Drafted by Atlanta Dream in 2025 WNBA Draft
South Carolina guard Te-Hina Paopao is officially headed to the WNBA after being selected 18th overall by the Atlanta Dream in the second round of the 2025 WNBA Draft on April 14. A poised and experienced playmaker, Paopao was the first Gamecock taken on draft night, followed shortly by teammates Bree Hall and Sania Feagin.
Paopao chose to watch the draft from her hometown of Oceanside, California, celebrating the life-changing moment with her family and close friends. It was a fitting tribute to a journey that began on the West Coast and found new heights in Columbia under head coach Dawn Staley.
During her lone season at South Carolina, Paopao made an immediate impact. Known for her smooth shooting stroke, elite basketball IQ, and steady leadership, she played a pivotal role in guiding the Gamecocks to an undefeated national championship season. Her ability to hit clutch shots, manage the tempo, and defend with grit made her a fan favorite and a respected figure in the locker room.
Now, Paopao joins an Atlanta Dream team looking to rise in the Eastern Conference standings. The Dream recently made headlines with the addition of Brittney Griner in free agency, and Paopao’s versatile backcourt presence could be just what they need to bolster their roster depth and outside shooting.
Her transition to the professional game will be closely watched by fans of both the Gamecocks and the Dream. As one of the most fundamentally sound guards in college basketball, Paopao’s game is expected to translate well at the next level.
For South Carolina, her selection is another proud moment for a program that continues to send elite talent to the WNBA. For Paopao, it’s just the beginning of a promising new chapter.
